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FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- Excitement is understandably building over the solar eclipse expected to hit the United States on Monday, but drivers will have to take certain factors into consideration if they happen to be out on the road when the eclipse arrives.

AAA is reminding eclipse-seekers to map out their viewing locations in advance, and to be safely off the roads while gazing at the skies.

AAA is also offering the following tips for drivers during the solars eclipse:

Do not attempt to watch the eclipse while driving. Exit the roadway and park in a safe area away from traffic. The peak darkness phase is expected to last just two to three minutes.

According to NASA, you should avoid looking directly at the sun without proper eye protection. The only safe way to look at the uneclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewers.

Drive safely. Eagerness to view the event is not an acceptable reason to drive aggressively or while distracted.

Drive with your headlights on. Not only will you be more visible to other drivers, but your forward vision will be improved.

Watch out for pedestrians. There may be people standing in or along the roadway watching the eclipse.

Be on the alert for distracted drivers.

Other drivers may attempt to watch the eclipse and drive at the same time.

keep additional space between you and other vehicles.

Reduce your speed so you have more time to make an emergency maneuver, if needed.

The eclipse will last in Connecticut from about 1:25 p.m. to 4 p.m., with the peak coming at around 2:45 p.m. Connecticut is only expected to experience about a 68 percent eclipse.